Competition

Good to know

The height difference from the heel to the forefoot, also known as heel drop, toe spring, heel to toe spring
or simply drop.

There are many opinions about what a good heel drop is. We do not recommend any in particular. Lean more in this video.

Summary

We spent 6.1 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what runners think:

9
reasons to buy

Most of the runners who found the right fit found the Speedtrak to be very comfortable.

It is a worthy investment, according to a handful.

The shoe is extremely durable, based on the observations of more than a few.

Very aggressive and multi-directional lugs provide grip on rugged surfaces.

Several obstacle course racers loved the combination of traction, and durability in the Salomon Speedtrak.

Some users mentioned that the upper dries fairly quick and easy to clean.

A few noted that the interior of their shoes was very clean after a tough run on dirty off-road trail.

The QuickLace system offers effortless cinching that does not untie or loosen.

Several runners appreciated the QuickLace system for its ease of use and utility.

5
reasons not to buy

Most of the negative reviews were about how narrow the toe box is.

A handful of obstacle course enthusiasts remarked that it is a bit heavy.

Some runners felt that the ride was a bit jarring on hard ground due to the aggressive and very substantial lugs.

A small number of obstacle course participants wanted drainage holes in the shoe as it is one of Salomon’s biggest market for this shoe.

It runs small, according to several expert reviewers.

Bottom line

Salomon offers the Speedtrak as an update to the Fellraiser. It does, however, bring many of the features that have made the Fellraiser quite a popular choice among runners and obstacle course racers. The Speedtrak has unbelievable traction, excellent durability, and a no-brainer of a choice for muddy or wet running on rugged and difficult outdoor surfaces.

The Salomon Speedtrack is a beast on trails. I would wear it for any trail run or ultra-marathon. You do lose being “light on your feet”, but this is probably about as light as you can get with this much durability.

Updates to Salomon Speedtrak

Salomon made most of the modifications in the Speedtrak vis-a-vis the Fellraiser in the upper. A new anti-debris mesh is more breathable, but also does a better job in keeping debris off the shoe.

The upper has a more durable upper for tough outings off the road. It has very substantial overlays and a thick toe bumper for the best protection against the rough outdoors.

The rubber compound has been improved for better traction in wet conditions. This works together with the massive lugs for superior grip on mud, grass, and loose terrain.

Salomon Speedtrak size and fit

The fit of the Salomon Speedtrak is a bit narrow in the forefoot. There is a good hold in the midfoot and the heel without any dangers of hot spots or being too constraining. The lacing system and the fairly accommodating upper hug the foot for more support and security. It runs true to size.

Outsole

The outsole of the Salomon Speedtrak is covered with very aggressive and multi-directional lugs from the heel to the forefoot. Some of these lugs are facing opposite each other for better downhill or uphill running. The outsole layout is also designed for challenges in an obstacle course. Salomon uses the placement of the lugs to prevent mud or loose terrain from clinging into the outsole. The proprietary Wet Traction Contagrip covers the underfoot for superior traction on wet surfaces.

Midsole

A very simple injection molded EVA covers the whole midsole for standard cushioning, responsiveness, and durability. Like most full-length designs, the midsole foam helps with the movement from landing to take-off. It makes transitions, a bit more efficient and quicker.

Upper

The most prominent parts of the upper of the Speedtrak are the Sensifit overlays or the huge supports coming from the TPU overlays on both sides of the foot. These overlays extend to the heel to provide an all-expansive hold for stability and support on uneven and difficult terrains. The anti-debris mesh adds support and breathable coverage in this shoe. More protection comes in the form of the rubber toe cap that superbly shields the toes from getting bruised. A gusseted tongue that helps with the prevention of debris from getting in and a lace garage are two additional trail-specific features in the Speedtrak. An anatomically designed EVA footbed adds cushioning and support.